He says Arsenal ‘have opened disciplinary proceedings’ against Koscielny, who can expect a fine and is ‘almost certain’ to be removed as captain.

The player is ‘desperate’ to return to France, with Bordeaux, Lyon and Rennes all interested. None have made a ‘formal offer’ as of yet.

Arsenal rejected Koscielny’s attempt to cancel the final year of his contract, and he is now ‘believed to be considering buying out the remainder’ of the £90,000-a-week deal.

The Gunners, who have been ‘shocked’ by his conduct, were ‘considering’ renewing his contract dependent on his recent long-term Achilles injury, but would never match the three-year deal Bordeaux are believed to have offered.